Wood can add warmth and beauty to a bathroom, but also raises concerns about moisture damage. With proper selection and care, wood can be a durable, worry-free choice. Here’s how to make wood work in your bathroom.
Choosing the Right Wood
Not all woods are created equal when it comes to moisture resistance. The dense, oily woods used for outdoor furniture are best for bathrooms. Good options include:
- Teak – Naturally weather-resistant and beautiful golden color.
- Ipe – Extremely dense and durable with a chocolate brown hue.
- Cumaru – Similar to teak with a reddish-brown color.
- Mahogany – Classic rich reddish wood. Select treated or marine-grade.
- Larch – Hardwood with natural water resistance. Has an attractive amber color.
Rosewood, cypress, and redwood also fare well in bathrooms. Ask suppliers for woods approved for boat building or outdoor use.
Avoid porous woods like oak, maple, and poplar that absorb moisture and swell. Also steer clear of particle board or MDF products. The sawdust in these engineered woods won’t hold up to moisture.
Proper Installation
Proper installation is key to preventing moisture damage. Use these tips when installing wood:
- Allow proper spacing between boards for expansion.
- Seal all edges with waterproof wood sealant.
- Use backerboard behind wood walls or use moisture-resistant drywall.
- Ensure underneath surfaces are waterproofed.
- Use silicone caulk between wood and tile or metal surfaces.
- Consider marine varnish for extra protection on horizontal surfaces.
Also keep the bathroom well-ventilated and use a humidistat fan to control moisture levels.
Ongoing Care
With the right maintenance, your wood surfaces will stay beautiful for years:
- Wipe up spills and drips promptly.
- Re-apply sealant yearly or as needed.
- Use coasters under drinks and toiletries.
- Consider annual re-varnishing or re-oiling.
- Buff out minor scratches to prevent moisture getting in.
- Monitor around sinks and tubs for any swelling or bubbling.
Attractive & Durable Wood Options
Wood brings warmth and elegance to the utilitarian bathroom. With some care, even tub surrounds, vanities, and flooring can be wood. Consider these attractive and practical uses:
Wood Paneling
- Use tongue and groove panels for wainscoting or full wall application.
- Choose vertical grain panels and allow slight gaps for expansion.
- Use with water-resistant backerboard and seal edges.
- Provides rustic or vintage aesthetic.
Wood Floors
- Use marine-grade boards and allow expansion gaps.
- Coat thoroughly with polyurethane for water protection.
- Lighter woods like maple or bamboo work well.
- Can even use in the shower area with proper sealing.
Wood Vanities
- Choose a dense hardwood like teak or use marine-grade plywood.
- Avoid MDF or particle board products.
- Seal the underside and all edges.
- Use stainless steel hardware and waterproof glue.
- Apply several coats of marine varnish.
Wood Bathtubs or Surrounds
- Use a specialized outdoor/marine grade wood like ipe.
- Construct surrounds with treated lumber and waterproof glue.
- Allow wood to dry fully before sealing and caulking.
- Maintain with yearly sanding and re-varnishing.
With smart choices and care, wood can create a warm, inviting look for your bathroom without risk of moisture damage. Selecting woods made for outdoor exposure will allow you to safely enjoy the beauty of wood in your bathroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best woods to use in a bathroom?
Teak, ipe, cumaru, and mahogany are excellent choices. Opt for dense, oily tropical hardwoods normally used for outdoor furniture or boat building.
Can you have real wood floors in a bathroom?
Yes, with proper installation and sealing, many hardwoods can stand up to the humidity. Use marine-grade boards with multiple coats of polyurethane. Allow expansion space and use with a waterproof subfloor.
Is MDF or particle board ok in bathrooms?
No. The sawdust and glue matrix of MDF and particle board absorbs moisture readily and swells. Use water-resistant plywood or solid wood instead.
Should wood vanities be sealed?
Definitely. Apply waterproof wood glue to all joints. Seal the underside, backside, edges, and any cuts with an epoxy or polyurethane sealant to prevent water damage.
How do you maintain wood bathrooms?
Preventative care is key. Wipe up spills promptly, use coasters, re-apply sealant yearly, buff out scratches, and watch for any swelling or bubbling. Refinish wood paneling and vanities as needed to maintain the protective seal.
Conclusion
Wood can transform a cold, clinical bathroom into a warm oasis. With knowledgeable wood selection, smart installation, and proper care, you can safely incorporate wood elements without risk of water damage or warping. Use dense, oily tropical hardwoods made for outdoor and marine use. Allow for expansion, seal thoroughly, and maintain with diligent care. The result will be a bathroom overflowing with rustic charm and natural beauty. With the right know-how, wood can withstand the demands of bathroom humidity for years of worry-free enjoyment.
